Verstappen: I was never 'Mad Max'

Verstappen: I was never 'Mad Max'

Martin Macdonald

Thursday 7 March 2019 15:14

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Max Verstappen has claimed that he was never 'Mad Max' in reference to how aggressive and competitive he can be on the track, but did admit that he needs to be "mature" as he embarks on his fifth season in Formula 1.

The Dutchman is known for his swashbuckling style during races and received FIA punishment last season for shoving Esteban Ocon after a race, with his personality earning him the nickname 'Mad Max', but he thinks this moniker is inaccurate.

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"It’s going to be my fifth season so there are no excuses anymore and you have to be mature,” Verstappen told Reuters.

“I was never 'Mad Max'. I was just Max who was trying to get the best result for the team. As a driver I will always be the same guy.

“I always try to get the best result out of it, I’m not there to just sit second or sit third. I’m a winner and I want to win every single race and I will always go for it.

“If you are fighting for the championship sometimes second is enough, for sure. But I’ve never been in that position yet in Formula One, so every opportunity I get to win a race I will always go for it."

Verstappen then provided an update on how long he plans to stay in F1, and it seems like he is in for the long haul.

“My aim is to be here for 15 years at least. I’ve got another 11, and I’m 32 then," he continued.

“Maybe I can drive until I’m 36 or 37. 40. It depends on how long you like it as well. Maybe 42.”

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